This material which acts as a shock absorber is developed from biocompatible polymers and is endowed with high resistance to compression (fulfilling the required utilization). Several companies wish to become rapidly involved in this development project. The elaboration of the intervertebral disc prothesis is patented.

The development of non-toxic activators for radical polymerization of acrylic cements used in the production of joint prostheses is another line of activity. At present, the DMPT is used to ensure the quick setting of orthopaedic cement (polymerization).

The sealing of a hip replacement must take less than 15 minutes. However, DMPT is a highly carcinogenic organic molecule capable of migrating in time throughout the human body. Replacing it with a non-toxic activator would thus represent radical progress. PolymerExpert's engineers are in the process of developing polymers with the same activation characteristics as DMPT.

The advantage is that due to their macromolecular size they remain confined within the cement with no risk of migration within the human body. The non-toxic activator will be patented on march 2001.

PolymerExpert develops a new watersoluble copolymer which gelifies with temperature. The solution in water (5% solid content) is liquid at room temperature and becomes viscous then a gel under 28°C. This copolymer is a hyperbranched poly(ethylene oxide-co-propylene oxide), which presents few applications in cosmetics and pharmaceutical field. This innovation has been patented in June 2002.

PolymerExpert develops some polymer materials whose shape changes when they are warmed. The transition temperature can be precisely adjusted between –20°C and + 120°C. The material is a cross linked polymer with an adjusted glass transition temperature. These materials can be implanted in the human body : catheters, caps, pipes or used as safe systems for fire prevention or thermosensible product preservation.